On Monday afternoon, MASN’s Mark Zuckerman announced that Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams could return to the lineup after injuring his shoulder this past Thursday. In addition, starter Trevor Williams could make his long-awaited return to the mound for Washington’s series against the Chicago Cubs this upcoming weekend. Here is what both of their returns could mean for the foreseeable future.
Abrams, Williams to Return Before Season Ends
It’s no secret that the 23-year-old Abrams is one of the best players on this young-and-coming Nationals ballclub, as he leads the team with 126 hits, 20 home runs, 77 runs, and 27 doubles and is tied with Luis Garcia Jr. for 65 RBI. However, the star shortstop hit a slump starting in mid-August and went multiple games without a hit. He especially had some struggles fielding-wise by committing multiple errors with the question of whether or not a position change was necessary.
Nevertheless, Abrams remained efficient on the offensive side and went on a little hot streak – two homers and one double in his last four games – before hurting his shoulder. Despite missing the last four games, he should continue to contribute strongly to a team already eliminated from postseason contention. However, there is also the possibility of shutting the All-Star down and not taking any chances.
Abrams’ Future Contract Talks After this Season
The most recent contract that Abrams signed with the Nationals was for one year and $752,400. He is also under arbitration control through the 2028 season. Back in May, Abrams and the ballclub had “substantive discussions” about a possible contract extension. The shortstop is looking very likely to qualify for Super Two status and an extra year of arb eligibility. Therefore, signing him to an extension would give Washington extra cost certainty over the 23-year-old star. As long as Abrams continues to produce, the Nationals should be in good hands.
Trevor Williams’ Rehabilitation Process
The 32-year-old veteran Williams was having a strong season for Washington until his injury. In 2024, the right-hander made 11 appearances on the mound and went an impressive 5-0 with a 2.22 ERA and 47 strikeouts through 56.2 innings pitched. He was then placed on the injured list on May 30 due to a flexor strain in his elbow.
Over three months later, Williams made some solid progress for Double-A Harrisburg. In his second rehab start on Sunday, the right-hander went 4 1/3 innings, allowed two runs, and struck out four batters on 73 pitches. The veteran will make a bullpen appearance against the Mets this week. This would set him up to start against the Cubs on Friday.
Williams is A Free Agent After This Season
Joining the Nationals in December 2022, Williams signed a two-year, $13 million contract. Despite a rough 2023 campaign, he quickly bounced back with stronger numbers earlier this season before his injury. Williams will be a free agent after the 2024 season, leaving the question of whether or not the ballclub will re-sign him. The veteran re-signing with the Nationals would put him in a stacked rotation alongside MacKenzie Gore, Jake Irvin, and 2024 rookies Mitchell Parker and D.J. Herz.
Main Photo: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
